Griswold Conservation Area: A Glacial Kame Overlook

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Hike to the top of a glacial kame at Griswold Conservation Area for panoramic views and a peek into Illinois' Ice Age past.

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Griswold Conservation Area

Griswold Conservation Area, near Blue Mound, Illinois, offers a unique glimpse into the region's glacial past. This 45-acre park features a prominent glacial kame, offering panoramic views of the surrounding farmland and a chance to explore diverse wildlife habitats.

A brief summary to Griswold Conservation Area

9896 S Meridian Ave, Blue Mound, Illinois, 62513, US
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Local tips

Bring binoculars for enhanced birdwatching and to fully appreciate the distant views from the top of the kame.
Visit during the fall for the annual Fall Festival and to enjoy the colorful foliage.
Take advantage of the picnic facilities and pavilion for a relaxing outdoor lunch or gathering.

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Getting There

Driving

From Decatur, Illinois, head southwest on US-51 S/S Franklin St. Continue to follow US-51 S for approximately 12 miles. Turn right onto IL-48 W and follow for about 1.5 miles. Turn right onto S Meridian Ave, and the Griswold Conservation Area will be on your left. Parking is free and readily available.
Walking

From Blue Mound, Illinois, a half-mile trail connects the town to Griswold Conservation Area. The trail begins near the edge of town and leads directly to the park entrance. Follow the marked path for an easy and scenic walk. No fees are associated with walking.

Discover more about Griswold Conservation Area

Griswold Conservation Area is a 45-acre park located 1.5 miles northwest of Blue Mound, Illinois, in Macon County. The park's defining feature is a glacial kame, a cone-shaped hill of gravel formed by melting glaciers around 75,000 years ago. Rising 80 feet above the surrounding landscape, the kame stands as the second-highest point in Macon County, providing visitors with spectacular, far-reaching views; on a clear day, it's said you can see into four counties.The area was donated to the county in 1973 by Harry E. Griswold. The village of Blue Mound gets its name from the glacial kame located within the conservation area. Once quarried for stone, the remains of the kame were preserved for public use.The park features a short, half-mile trail that connects to Blue Mound, picnic areas, a playground, and a pavilion. The north portion of the area serves as a wildlife sanctuary, home to various bird species, including hawks and owls, as well as mammals like groundhogs, deer, foxes, and coyotes. Informative signs throughout the park provide insights into the area's geological history and wildlife. The park hosts seasonal events such as a Fall Festival.